A 26-year-old man must launch a criminal defense in two states as he faces charges of killing his pregnant girlfriend in Georgia and fatally shooting a police officer in a neighboring state.

The man, originally from North Augusta, Georgia, is charged with murder in the killing of his 21-year-old girlfriend and also of unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Just weeks before her death, the woman accused her boyfriend of assault, but police had been able to locate him in order to question him.

Her body was discovered in her Richmond County, Georgia, apartment after her manager at a local hamburger restaurant told the sheriff's office that the always punctual woman hadn't shown up for work.

The man also is charged with possession of a firearm while committing a crime and murder in the death of a veteran police officer in Aiken, South Carolina. The officer, a 49-year-old woman, had worked for the force for more than 27 years. She was shot as she investigated a report of suspicious activity in a park. Other officers also responding to the scene claim to have seen a blue BMW pulling away from the site.

The suspect was taken into custody a few hours after the shooting and was being held in the Aiken County Detention Center.

The accused's father acknowledged his son's previous legal troubles and said he had mental difficulties. He alleged that his son took his BMW without his consent and had not returned with it. The car also was also allegedly seen outside the girlfriend's Augusta apartment the evening before the officer's death.

There is little information available as to specific evidence that points to the man's guilt. Fortunately he is entitled to his day in court and has the right to present a strong defense. He should consult with an experienced attorney who can ensure that all legal rights are respected.

Source: The Augusta Chronicle, "Man to be charged in slayings of girlfriend, officer," Steve Crawford and Summer Moore, Jan. 28, 2012